I see MS Dhoni playing a major role in helping Ruturaj Gaikwad: Tom Moody

In what is regarded as a shocking decision, MS Dhoni resigned his position as the captain of the Chennai Super Kings and handed the baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). The five-time champions handed over the captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja in 2022 but the move backfired as Dhoni took over the role in the middle of the tournament. However, unlike Jadeja, Gaikwad has a lot of experience in leading a side. He has done a commendable job as skipper as it was under his leadership that India won the Asian Games in 2023.

He has done well for Maharastra as well but IPL seems to be a difficult task and as per former cricketer Tom Moody, the 27-year-old would need the help of MS Dhoni. He expects the legendary cricketer to play the role of a mentor and groom Gaikwad this season so that he remains prepared in Dhoni’s absence. Moody also added that he believes that Dhoni will play the majority of the games in IPL 2024 as CSK has 18-year-old Aravelly Avanish as his backup.

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“I see him playing most of this season. The backup wicketkeeper is an U19 guy. You don't want to throw him straightaway. Last season would have probably been the right time for him to retire, if at all he wanted to, after winning the trophy. But since he has decided to play the role of a mentor this season, I see him playing a major role in helping Ruturaj Gaikwad. But I don't see him playing not at all,” Moody told ESPNcricinfo.

Probably Dhoni was questioned on whether he can get through the whole tournament: Moody

Furthermore, Tom Moody also believes that MS Dhoni might not be 100% fit, which forced the cricketer to step down as the captain. He mentioned that the Ranchi-born cricketer has played a lot of cricket throughout his career, which might have taken a toll on his body and to be on the safer side, he resigned as CSK skipper.

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“One thing that did cross my mind when I heard the news the first time is that does this means the preparation until now hasn't gone as planned for Dhoni, physically. Remember, at the end of the day, he is 40 and has played enormous amount of cricket and that does take a toll on your body when you are a keeper. Probably he was questioned on whether he can get through the whole tournament and this sort of gives him the flexibility without compromising the side. This could possibly be the case,” Moody concluded.